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Ethacrynic acid is sold in 25 mg and 50 mg tablets for oral use. The sodium salt (ethacrynate sodium) can also be given intravenously. The IV solution must be prepared and maintained with a pH above 5.

Ethacrynic acid acts by inhibiting sodium-potassium-chloride cotransport in the ascending loop of Henle. Loss of potassium ions is less marked but chances of hypochloremic alkalosis are greater. The dose response curve of ethacrynic acid is steeper than that of furosemide and, in general, it is less manageable; dose range is 50-150mg.

Ethacrynic acid and its glutathione-adduct are potent inhibitors of glutathione S-transferase family members, which are enzymes involved in xenobiotic metabolism. This family of enzymes has recently been shown to have a high rate of genetic variability.